You may get your yearly check-up, but you should also be getting these specific tests to make sure you're healthy.
1. Pap Smear - To Detect Cervical Cancer
If you're 21 or older, you should be getting Paps at least every other year. If you're HIV positive, have an STI, multiple sexual partners or are a smoker then you should be getting a Pap annually.
2. Mammogram - To Detect Breast Cancer
Manual clinical breast examinations are recommended during your yearly physical starting at the age of 20. For women aged 40 and up, you should have an annual mammogram via x-ray.
3. Diabetes Screening
If you don't present any risk factors, then you should get tested every 3 years from the age of 45 onward. If you're pregnant, overweight or have a family history of diabetes or heart problems, then you should get tested younger.
4. Thyroid Test - To Detect Hypothyroidism, Thyroid Cancer, Or Other Thyroid-Related Illnesses
A blood test to measure the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the body, should take place every 3 to 5 years starting at the age of 35 then annually after the age of 60.
5. Ear & Eye Exam
Set up an appointment with a specialist every 2 to 5 years for an audiogram, especially if you have a family history of hearing impairment.
Take a vision test every 1 to 3 years between the ages of 18 and 61.
6. Fecal Occult Blood Test & Colonoscopy
If you already have intestinal problems, then your doctor may suggest that you take the test earlier otherwise annual testing begins at age 50.
7. Blood Pressure Test
You can get your blood pressure reading done during your annual physical examination or by yourself at any major drugstore.
8. Bone Density Test
The first test is usually recommended at the age of 65 and can be repeated every 5 years thereafter.
9. Lipid Profile/Cholesterol Screening
Tests begin at the age of 20 and should be done at least every 5 years until the age of 45, after which they should be done annually.
10. Skin Cancer Test
A monthly personal "mole check" is recommended by experts but you can also opt for a free skin cancer screening at your local clinic or drug store.
